Christmas 2025 delivery slots: When to book for Asda, Sainsbury’s, M&S & more
Christmas
As Halloween decorations still twinkle in the shop aisles, many Britons are already thinking ahead to the most celebrated time of the year — Christmas. And if you’re planning to host friends or family, one of the most important things to sort out early is your festive food delivery.
Supermarkets across the UK have begun releasing their Christmas 2025 delivery slots, giving early birds a chance to book their turkeys, desserts, and bubbly before the December rush. From Asda to Waitrose, these coveted slots tend to vanish fast — sometimes within hours — so timing and preparation are everything.
Why You Should Book Early
Year after year, thousands of households scramble for last-minute delivery spaces, only to find them fully booked. Whether you’re preparing a lavish feast or simply want to avoid the supermarket queues, reserving your delivery slot early guarantees peace of mind and ensures your favourite festive items aren’t sold out.
Delivery passes often provide early access to these slots, and each retailer offers slightly different pricing and dates. Here’s what to know before you book:
Supermarket Christmas Delivery Guide 2025
1. Asda
Asda opened its Christmas delivery slots to Delivery Pass holders on October 15, with bookings for everyone else from October 21. Delivery windows run between December 21–23, and customers can make final order changes up to December 15.
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Delivery Pass: £6.95–£7.95 monthly (anytime), £3.95–£4.50 (midweek).
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Minimum spend: £40.
2. M&S (Marks & Spencer)
M&S customers can already pre-order their festive favourites. Slots opened back in September, and collection dates range from December 21–24. A £50 deposit secures your order, payable at booking, with the balance due upon pickup.
3. Morrisons
Morrisons’ slots are live for Delivery Pass holders and cover December 20–24. Non-pass customers will gain access later this month.
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Delivery Pass: £8 monthly (anytime), £5 (midweek).
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Minimum spend: £25.
4. Sainsbury’s
Sainsbury’s made slots available to pass holders from October 16, with general bookings opening on October 23. Delivery windows run from December 18–24, and orders can be amended until 11pm the night before delivery.
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Delivery Pass: £7.50 monthly (anytime), £4 (midweek).
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Minimum spend: £40.
5. Waitrose
Waitrose has opened its Christmas delivery slots for all shoppers — no pass required. Available delivery dates run from December 20–24, and the booking deadline is December 15.
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Minimum spend: £40.
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Tip: Slots fill fast due to high demand for premium festive produce.
Tips for Beating the Festive Rush
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Set reminders: Most supermarkets notify pass holders ahead of slot openings.
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Compare passes: If you shop frequently online, a monthly or midweek pass can save both time and money.
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Plan early: Make your Christmas food list now — from starters to desserts — so you can book efficiently once slots open.
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Check cut-off times: Each retailer has its own final date for modifying orders.
Christmas might still be weeks away, but the smart shoppers are already securing their delivery spots. After all, nothing spoils festive cheer like a missing turkey or an unavailable pudding!
FAQs
Q1: When do Christmas 2025 delivery slots open?
Most UK supermarkets began opening slots in mid-October for pass holders and late October for everyone else.
Q2: Do I need a Delivery Pass to book a Christmas slot?
Not necessarily. While passes give early access, supermarkets like Waitrose and M&S also allow non-pass bookings.
Q3: What is the minimum order amount for Christmas deliveries?
It varies — £25 at Morrisons, £40 at Waitrose and Sainsbury’s, and £50 for M&S Food To Order collections.
Q4: When should I make final changes to my Christmas food order?
Most retailers allow edits until mid-December or the day before delivery. Always confirm when booking.
Q5: Can I collect instead of opting for delivery?
Yes, most supermarkets including M&S, Tesco, and Asda offer collection services with flexible pickup windows.